Nine Indonesian nationals undergo medical examinations in Turkey before returning to Indonesia
Nine Indonesian nationals who volunteered for Global Sumud Flotilla 2026 have been released after previously being detained by the Israeli army. They are currently undergoing medical examinations and providing testimony in Turkey.
‘The Indonesians are still undergoing testimony, medical checks and visa procedures,’ said Yudhi Ardian, the Minister-Counsellor at the Indonesian Embassy in Ankara, on Saturday (23 May 2026). ‘Because these nine Indonesians are part of the larger GSF group, the process is still ongoing and fully conducted by Turkish authorities and the GSF,’ he added.
Yudhi confirmed that the Indonesians have been welcomed and well treated in Turkey. The Indonesian Embassy in Ankara continues to monitor the progress of the proceedings carried out by Turkish authorities and the GSF. ‘Based on what was relayed by the Consul General in Istanbul last night, the Indonesians have been received and are being treated well. We are still monitoring the process underway by Turkish authorities and the GSF,’ he said.
Regarding the health status of the Indonesians, Yudhi said that, from initial observations, all are in good health. However, the authorities are awaiting more detailed information from the health checks. ‘From a quick look, they appear healthy, but we are also seeking more detailed information,’ he said.
The Indonesian authorities hope all steps will be completed soon so that the Indonesians can return home. ‘We want it done as soon as possible, so they can return to the homeland,’ he added.
Earlier, Chief of the Presidential Staff (KSP), Dudung Abdurachman, said the Indonesians were expected to arrive back in the country the next day. Based on a report from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, their condition is good. ‘If not today, then tomorrow they will arrive,’ Dudung said at MAN Insan Cendikia, Serpong, South Tangerang, on Friday (22 May).
Here is the list of the nine Indonesians abducted by the Israeli army according to the GPCI report:
Herman Budianto Sudarsono (GPCI - Dompet Dhuafa) Ship Zapyro
Ronggo Wirasanu (GPCI - Dompet Dhuafa) Ship Zapyro
Andi Angga Prasadewa (GPCI - Rumah Zakat) Ship Josef
Asad Aras Muhammad (GPCI - Spirit of Aqso) Ship Kasr-1
Hendro Prasetyo (GPCI - SMART 171) Ship Kasr-1
Bambang Noroyono (REPUBLIKA) Ship BoraLize
Thoudy Badai Rifan Billah (REPUBLIKA) Ship Ozgurluk
Andre Prasetyo Nugroho (Tempo) Ship Ozgurluk
Rahendro herubowo (Tim Media GPCI dan iNews) Ship Ozgurluk